Meet the Women Who Raise the Bar: Mithu Mondal
From the dining floor to behind the bar
Every career starts somewhere. For Mithu Mondal, it began on the restaurant floor. Starting as a steward, she discovered that hospitality was about far more than service. It was about creating memorable moments, connecting with guests and constantly learning. Driven by a passion for mixology, she worked her way behind the bar, turning curiosity into a profession. Today, as a bartender at Bombastic Supper Club, Mithu continues to challenge herself while inspiring more women to see bartending as a career full of creativity, opportunity and growth.
Your Journey Begins
How did you first step into the world of bartending?
My journey into hospitality began as a steward at Scrapyard, where I learned the fundamentals of discipline, teamwork and guest service. Working in that environment sparked my interest in mixology, and I knew I wanted to be behind the bar.
I later joined Taki Taki as an Assistant Bartender, where I developed my technical skills and deepened my understanding of the craft. Today, I'm proud to work as a Bartender at Bombastic Supper Club, where every shift is an opportunity to learn something new and create memorable experiences for my guests.
Challenges & Turning Points
What has been the biggest challenge in your journey?
Starting from the very beginning meant earning every opportunity. As a steward, I had to prove myself every day while learning new skills and building the trust of my seniors.
The biggest turning point came when I finally stepped behind the bar and began competing in cocktail competitions. Those experiences pushed me outside my comfort zone, strengthened my confidence and reminded me that continuous learning is one of the most rewarding parts of this profession.
Milestones That Matter
Which achievement are you most proud of?
Every milestone represents the effort that brought me here.
Becoming the 1st Runner Up at the MONIN Cup East Zone 2024, winning the Corralejo Margarita Challenge East Zone for the Most Hygienic Cocktail, and completing my WSET Level 1 in Spirits are achievements in 2025, I'm incredibly proud of.
Looking back, one of my greatest accomplishments has simply been growing from a steward into a professional bartender in just over four years. That journey has shown me that dedication and consistency always pay off.
How do you define success today?
Success is no longer just about winning competitions.
For me, success means continuing to improve, learning something new every day and creating experiences that guests remember long after they've left the bar.
Shifting the Narrative
What would you like people to understand about bartending?
I want people to see bartending for what it truly is: a profession built on creativity, knowledge, discipline and genuine hospitality.
Every cocktail tells a story, and every guest deserves an experience that feels personal. I hope my own journey encourages others to believe that hard work, curiosity and continuous learning can create opportunities they never imagined possible.
Women Raise the Bar
What does the Women Raise the Bar movement mean to you?
To me, Women Raise the Bar is about creating confidence and opportunity.
As a woman in bartending, I hope to inspire more women to step into this industry without hesitation. The more we support one another, share knowledge and celebrate talent, the more we can challenge stereotypes and create lasting change.
Quick Hits
Your favourite cocktail to make?
A Paloma.
I love its freshness, balance and simplicity. It's a classic that always leaves room for creativity.
One ingredient you're currently enjoying working with?
Grapefruit.
Its bright, citrusy character brings freshness and complexity to cocktails, making it incredibly versatile behind the bar.
In one sentence, what does "raising the bar" mean to you?
"Raising the bar means becoming a better version of myself every day while inspiring others through passion, excellence and genuine hospitality."
Want to be part of it? Join the community here.
